In youth, we are so busy that exercise is generally taken for granted; but over time, as our bodies lose some of that youthful glow, it’s time to stop the clock and get back into shape. For busy parents, exercise is always one of those things we plan to do when we have the time. Something we will fit in sometime if our busy schedules allow it. But it is only for so long that the body will go on without any maintenance — sooner or later it will show signs of neglect — such as weight gain, aches and pains, pulled muscles, back problemsor just a bit of a sag.
In the fast moving pace of life in the Gulf, many busy people have a tendency to put their own personal needs last. But just think of the wise advice you receive on an airplane: Put on your oxygen mask first, then help others around you, you start to get the picture.
It’s probably best to fit your exercise into your daily routine and make this as simple as possible. For example, if you have to travel half an hour to your expensive gym, unless you really enjoy being there, it’s going to be hard to keep this up. Whereas 20 minutes every morning can be fitted in, in the privacy of your own bedroom before your morning shower. A friend of mine who finally converted to the benefits of early morning exercise told me that her work colleagues commented on how bright and breezy she looked in the mornings. My mini-morning exercise routine is designed for this purpose and you can send for a free copy by emailing to [email protected]
Try to fit in another three sessions of 30 minutes exercise during the week. Try swimming, cycling, walking, or anything else that you enjoy!
Listen to your body. On days that you feel strong, challenge yourself and on days that you don’t feel 100 percent, take it easy.
Recipe of the Week
Positano Chicken
Serves 6
6 boneless skinless chicken breast halves
1-1/2 tsp. Italian herb seasoning
1-1/2 tbsp olive oil
1-1/2 onions, chopped
640 g recipe-ready crushed tomatoes
3/4 tsp. cinnamon
1-1/2 tbsp honey
45 ml red vinegar
Season chicken with half the Italian herbs and salt and pepper to taste. Heat oil in a heavy non-stick skillet over medium high heat. Sauté chicken 2-3 minutes, until browned on bottom. Turn over, stir in onion, and remaining Italian seasoning. Cook 2 minutes and stir in remaining ingredients. Bring to a boil. Cover skillet; reduce heat to medium low and cook 6-8 minutes, until chicken is cooked throughout.
Exercise Tip
The Whole Body Stretch
Here’s a quick way to relieve some stress during the day. Lie on your back on a flat surface (preferably an exercise mat). Place both arms straight above your head with your palms up. Then, stretch your arms and legs out at the same time. Keep your back flat on the floor and don’t strain yourself. Hold the stretch for five seconds and then relax for five seconds. Repeat this a few times and you’ll feel less stressed out.
Ask Alva
I have a good body structure but the only things that makes me out of shape is my thighs and my butt. My BMI is 28, so I know I am overweight but I do the housework and I have no strength to get up early and go walking. Please tell me a better way to make myself look slim and better, or otherwise tell me if any medicines would help me without any side effects. Alia
I can see that it is difficult to look after your weight because you are so busy. But your health is important and when you exercise you have more energy and you feel brighter and more confident. I would suggest you get up 20 minutes earlier and give this best part of the day to yourself before you get too tired. Try to eat less fat, as this will help you to lose weight from your hips and thighs. Alva